Baedeker begins California Horse Racing Board executive director duties Monday

Rick Baedeker, selected earlier this month by the California Horse Racing Board as the organization’s new executive director, begins work in Sacramento, Calif., on Monday after passing all the government-mandated background checks.

Baedeker has worked in the sport for nearly 40 years, beginning as a handicapper alongside his legendary father, Bud, and brother, Bob, with their Baedeker’s Guide. He worked in racetrack management positions at Hollywood Park and The Woodlands, and for organizations like the National Thoroughbred Racing Association and TVG.

In recent years, Baedeker helped develop mini-satellites for off-track betting in Southern California, and consulted for Sportech, which provides tote services to California tracks.

“Speaking for the entire board, we’re very happy that Rick will soon be our executive director,” CHRB chairman Chuck Winner said in a release. “He brings a wealth of racing knowledge and creativity along with his management skills that will help lead our industry as we move forward. Rick will be working alongside Jackie Wagner, our assistant executive director, who has been doing a wonderful job guiding the CHRB during the last several months.”

Wagner was the interim director after the death last year of Kirk Breed.